Composed and orchestrated during the fall of 2007. Anthem is an eleven-minute, single-movement work for full symphonic band. Although it incorporates elements of the national anthems of both the United States and the Republic of Iraq, Anthem is not a "war piece" per se. Rather, it invites the listener to contemplate ramifications of the conflict as it might be viewed by an Iraqi civilian through my setting of Iraqi national anthem, entitled "My Homeland," and by a United States servicemen or woman, with segments of "The Star Spangled Banner" in addition to an originally composed ballad-like theme.
Like most Americans, my admiration for the heroic actions, sacrifices, and humanitarian contributions by our armed forces serving in Iraq is very genuine. Mission accomplished? I think not. My mission, if you will, conceiving and composing this work, was simply one I felt a need to fulfill, both as a musician and as an American. I hope you will find it meaningful.
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